Two young boys, Omar Abu Kuwaik from Gaza and Ali Khalife from southern Lebanon, have found comfort in each other after surviving Israeli airstrikes that left them orphaned and injured.
Omar, six, lost his left hand and suffered severe facial injuries, while two-year-old Ali lost his right hand and became the only survivor of his family. Both were rescued from the rubble of their homes and received medical care in Beirut, Lebanon.
Now, they live together in an apartment provided by the Ghassan Abu Sittah Children’s Fund, a nonprofit run by Palestinian-British surgeon Dr Ghassan Abu Sittah. The charity has supported around 180 children, helping those who suffered burns, brain injuries, or lost limbs.
Omar and Ali live with their aunts, Maha and Sobhiye, who care for them like mothers. The boys call them “Mama” and have become inseparable. They support each other during recovery and enjoy playing with toys and painting. Ali already has a prosthetic arm, and Omar will soon receive one.
The war has disabled over 21,000 Palestinian children, leaving many traumatised and homeless. Despite their losses, Omar and Ali show that friendship and love can bring hope even in the darkest times.
This week, Israel and Hamas began phase one of a ceasefire agreement, aiming to build lasting peace in Gaza.
